Mission Del Rey Blog

Native American drums have long been a part of the Tarahumara culture. Reaching the Tarahumara Indians and the Mission Del Rey area to hear their native drums proved quite a challenge early on. The following is an account of one of the first explorers to reach the area in the late 1800's. Photograph circa 1890 Climbing, climbing, climbing, one massive cordon after another, at the start through dense oak thickets, and over hills flattened and eroded with countless deep, precipitous gashes seaming …

The triumph of the Native American flutes in Native culture is a true testament to its strong artistic and social elements. The power of Native American history is seen today in a simple musical instrument, the flute. Many books would provide you with texts about this important subject. There are many web sites that offer essential information as well. Native American history is a history of a people who have a very rich and diverse culture. They have many artifacts that show the richness o …

Native American rattles are very important percussion instruments. It's interesting to learn that there are rules connected with the use of rattles in the Native American culture. These unusual rattles are an integral and necessary part of Native American music. The rattle, when played along with the hand drum, gives a steady beating which inspires Native tribal music. The music pattern is completed by adding the rattle along with the voice. Normally, rules pertaining to gender are enforced. The …

There are many ways in which Native American art can be manifested. Some of the most well known are pottery pieces. The skill and creative thoughts of the potter can easily be seen in pots, jars, and bowls. While some of this pottery is made along strictly traditional lines, many Indian artists combine ancient design with their own artistic thoughts. Besides pottery, Native American art is rich in carvings, both large and small. Everything from tiny animal fetishes to totem poles contributes to …

Used both personally and in rituals, Native American pipes for smoking tobacco have been part of Indian traditions for hundreds of years. Various kinds of pipes offering different sizes and shapes have become popular over the years. These traditions are still around today and bring Indian culture to light. Even before Christopher Columbus stepped foot in the New World, tobacco followed the Indian trade routes all throughout the continent. Part of the important rituals and ceremonies of many trib …